About Habiba Community
Aspiring to green the Sinai desert, Habiba has created an oasis of community & ecological cultivation. At Habiba, you will eat from the fruits of labor from people who came before you and you will plant for the next ones that will never see you.
Habiba Community is committed to transforming the lives of local Bedouin communities by promoting sustainable agriculture and permaculture. We do this by empowering the Bedouins we employ to experiment with organic farming, helping them not only grow their own produce but to conduct their own research into how best to make use of the resources around us. Our goal at the farm is to help the local Bedouins learn and create their own farms, thus creating employment, food security, and a sense of commitment to the future of our shared environment. Habiba aspires to set a successful example to be followed by locals across the Sinai Peninsula.
What the position involves
You will be helping assess the health and biodiversity of the coral reefs in the Gulf of Aqaba on the Red Sea, that have been severely degraded over the years due to a desalinization plant nearby. Understanding coral reef ecosystems, species identification, and ecological dynamics is essential for accurately collecting and interpreting data.
You will also be interacting with community members at the Habiba Farms. You will spend time doing organic and regenerative farming, helping with projects run by local community members, and generally interacting with them.
- Conducting underwater surveys and data collection on coral reefs and marine species
- Analyzing water quality and monitoring environmental changes
- Engaging with local communities to raise awareness about marine conservation
- Assisting in the restoration of damaged coral reefs and other marine habitats
- Promoting sustainable fishing practices and marine waste management
Skills required
You should have experience or training in data collection methodologies, including underwater surveys, transect sampling, and data recording. Additionally, proficiency in data analysis software such as Excel, GIS (Geographic Information Systems), or specialized ecological analysis tools would be beneficial. Other skills required include:
- Background in marine biology or a related field
- Experience with underwater surveys and data collection
- Knowledge of coral reef ecosystems and marine conservation practices
- Experience in fishery management would be a great asset
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Good communication and community engagement skills
Accommodation and food
Accommodation is offered at Habiba Beach Lodge, on the shore of the Red Sea and a 15 minutes walk from the farm and the markets of Nuweiba. The cost is EUR30 per day, and each room is equipped with beds, sheets, towels, and a closet. Bathrooms are shared.
Two vegetarian meals are provided per day, which include many components are from the organic farm, in line with with our concept of farming and self-sustainability. We also provide bottled water, hot drinks like tea or Nescafe (3 times per day), and fruits (served 3 times per week).
The chef at Habiba Beach Lodge can satisfy all of your culinary wishes, but any special requirements should be communicated prior to arrival. Traditional Egyptian cuisine is our standard. Volunteers are free to cook their own meals with the ingredients provided by the Lodge or any other ingredients they wish to buy from local markets. Our organic veggies from the farm make superb salads, soups, and sauces!
Work schedule and free time
The workday schedule is flexible, but it is usually divided into morning and afternoon activities. In the morning work starts at around 7am and finishes at 10am. All the volunteers have breakfast together between 10.30am and 11.30am, then there is free time and the afternoon activities start again from around 3pm until 5pm. The schedule slightly changes between summer and winter time. After the activities, you have free time to relax in the beachside area before dinner, served at 7pm.
What to bring along
- Diving suit or swimwear: essential for underwater analysis and exploration
- Diving equipment: if you have your own, bring it along for a seamless experience
- Sun protection: lightweight clothing to cover your head, neck and shoulders
- Mosquito repellant
- Sturdy shoes and work gloves
- Beach gear
- A sense of adventure
How to apply
If you are inspired by this opportunity and feel you could be the right person, we look forward to speaking with you. Please send us an email telling us about yourself why you would like to apply, along with your CV, any questions, and references.
Learn more about Habiba Community.
